THE threat of strike action by the city's binmen was lifted today, in what has been described as "a victory of the people of Liverpool."

Although a pay offer had been rejected yesterday, workers made a u-turn today. Nearly 200 Onyx binmen, who were due to strike tomorrow voted by 2 to 1 this morning to call off the stoppage.

The workers agreed to accept a two year deal, offering a 3.5 per cent pay rise, with the opportunity to improve pay in the second year, based on efficient performance. They held a meeting at Fazakerkey's Charnock Road depot.

An Onyx spokesman said today: "This is a deal where everything improves. This is a victory for the people of Liverpool."